The 1996 Chevrolet Impala SS represents the final and most refined year of the seventh-generation B-body platform, a car that successfully blended full-size utility with muscle car attitude. This specific example carries an impressive pedigree, having been acquired by professional UFC fighter Marlon “Chito” Vera in 2023. With a remarkably low 7k miles on the digital odometer, this survivor serves as a pristine window into the mid-nineties performance era, showcasing why the Impala SS remains a coveted prize for enthusiasts of American rear-wheel-drive sedans.
Dark Green-Gray Metallic and Stealthy SS Aesthetics
Dressed in Dark Green-Gray Metallic, one of the three signature colors available for the final production year, the silhouette of this 1996 Chevrolet Impala SS remains unmistakable. The exterior is characterized by its body-color single-bar front grille, decklid spoiler, and subtle quarter-panel badging that distinguishes it from its Caprice siblings. While the seller notes minor cosmetic dings on the right-rear quarter panel, the overall presentation is excellent, sitting correctly on factory 17-inch five-spoke alloy wheels wrapped in Michelin rubber.
Gray Leather Luxury with Modern Audio Upgrades
The cabin offers a spacious environment trimmed in gray leather, with the front bucket seats featuring the signature “SS” embroidered headrests. Despite its preservation-grade mileage, the interior has been thoughtfully enhanced for modern use under the current ownership. A Pioneer Bluetooth-capable stereo has been integrated into the dash, feeding a powerful audio setup that includes a custom trunk-mounted enclosure housing twin Rockford Fosgate subwoofers. Standard amenities like air conditioning, cruise control, and power-adjustable features ensure the driving experience remains as comfortable as it is nostalgic.
LT1 V8 Power and Heavy-Duty Performance Hardware
Under the expansive hood sits the legendary 5.7-liter LT1 V8 engine, which was factory rated at 260 hp/264 PS and 330 lb-ft/447 Nm of torque. This torque-heavy powerplant is mated to a 4L60E four-speed automatic transmission and a limited-slip differential. Unlike the standard sedans of the time, the Impala SS was equipped with a sport-tuned suspension featuring heavy-duty dampers and 12.1-inch disc brakes at all four corners. Recent maintenance includes the installation of new sway bar end links, ensuring the chassis remains tight and responsive.
| Technical Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 5.7-liter LT1 V8 |
| Transmission | 4-Speed Automatic (4L60E) |
| Odometer Reading | 7,000 Miles |
| Differential | Limited-Slip |
| Wheels | 17-inch Five-Spoke Alloy |
| Braking System | 12.1-inch 4-Wheel Disc |
| Exterior Color | Dark Green-Gray Metallic |
Collector Provenance and the Marlon Vera Connection
Finding a late-model B-body with such low mileage is increasingly difficult, and the ownership by UFC contender Marlon “Chito” Vera adds a unique layer of provenance to this listing. While the Impala SS originally competed against the likes of the Ford Crown Victoria or Mercury Marauder, its LT1 heartbeat and sportier tuning placed it in a league of its own. As 1990s performance cars continue to see a surge in valuation, a clean-title, 7k-mile example like this represents both a reliable investment and a high-profile piece of modern automotive history.
The Ultimate Evolution of a Full-Size Icon
This 1996 Chevrolet Impala SS is a rare combination of celebrity ownership, low mileage, and iconic styling. It remains one of the most capable road cruisers ever built by General Motors, offering a level of comfort and durability that modern sedans often struggle to replicate. For the collector who demands the very best of the mid-nineties muscle era, this LT1-powered sedan stands ready to deliver an exceptional driving or display experience.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
